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Reimagining Urban Space with Recycled Rubble and Community Gardens for Cultural Reflection

Reimagining Urban Space with Recycled Rubble and Community Gardens for Cultural Reflection
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Utilizing recycled rubble to create a dynamic pedestrian path adorned with community gardens, this redevelopment initiative in Al-Maarif fosters cultural reflection and social interaction through its thoughtful design and sustainable materials.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes an urban carpet made from locally sourced recycled rubble to connect various spaces.
02
Features a Museum of the Afterlife dedicated to exploring themes of existence and memory.
03
Incorporates community gardens to promote biodiversity and enhance social interaction.
04
Employs local stone in construction to maintain a connection to the region's architectural heritage.
05
Design emphasizes reflective zones for contemplation and cultural dialogue among residents.

### Project Overview

Located in Al-Maarif, Syria, the redevelopment project "Al-Maarif & Maara: Amidst the Epistle of Forgiveness" addresses the challenges of rebuilding a city profoundly impacted by conflict. Its intent is to harmonize urban design with sustainable architecture, facilitating both physical reconstruction and the emotional recovery of the community. The design draws inspiration from cultural and historical narratives, emphasizing themes of memory and reconciliation while seeking to rejuvenate the spirit of the inhabitants.

### Spatial Organization and Community Integration

The spatial arrangement consists of interconnected zones that serve distinct functions while promoting communal interaction. The "Paradise Zone" features a green oasis with public art installations that inspire reflection and tranquility. Adjacent is the "Jannah Section," designed as a social gathering space to strengthen community connections. The "Hasher Area" accommodates commemorative practices, reinforcing cultural identity, while the "Jahannam Reflection Space" serves as a contemplative area for discussions on the past and future. Each zone contributes to a cohesive experience of forgiveness and renewal.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices play a significant role in conveying the project's narrative of resilience. Pedestrian pathways are constructed using recycled rubble, emphasizing sustainability and recovery. Structural elements in glass and steel introduce a modern aesthetic, contrasting with the historical context, while local stone enhances the façades, linking contemporary design with traditional architecture. Additionally, green roofs are integrated to promote biodiversity and climate resilience, supporting a micro-ecosystem within the urban environment. These material selections collaboratively reflect both contemporary architectural language and the cultural heritage of Al-Maarif.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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